Popanyinning
Popanyinning was originally named ‘Popaning’ which stands for waterhole in the Aboriginal language. The name came about from a large waterhole that was situated just outside of the town. The waterhole was used by aborigines and wild brumbies from around the district. Years later the name was changed to Popanyinning, but no-one is really quite sure of why.
The birth of the township of Popanyinning can be attributed to both the construction of the Great Southern Railway and the desire of pioneers to settle within the perimeter of the townsite, being approximately 3.4 miles north and south and 14 miles east and west. Records show that the first pioneers arrived in 1893, and in 1898 pioneer railway construction workers and their families arrived.
By 1906 there were 72 families registered within the Popanyinning district. The town was basically built for agricultural conveniences so that surrounding settlers could come and buy their monthly supplies from the local shops and for the use of the railway facilities. Once there were many shops in the main street, such as a Blacksmith’s, General Store and Post Office, Mixed Goods Store and a Bakery.
On 2 April 1906 the Popanyinning Hotel was officially opened. It was very successful for many years, until 9 July 1978 when it sadly burnt down. The Hotel has never been replaced.
PLACES TO STAY
Laze Away Holiday & Caravan Park
Great Southern Highway
Tel: 08 9887 5027
Mobile:
Email: lazeaway@westnet.com.au
Web:
Popanyinning B&B
8 Francis Street
Tel: 08 9887 5033
Mob: 0499 875 562
Email: samandjennymaughan@bigpond.com.au
Web:
PLACES TO FILL UP
Popanyinning General Store
8 Francis Street
Tel: 08 9887 5033
Mobile:
Email:
Web:
OTHER SERVICES
Popanyinning General Store
8 Francis Street
Tel: 08 9887 5033
Mobile:
Email:
Web:
PLACES TO SEE
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Rosella Cottage
104 Francis Street
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Yornaning Dam
Between the towns of Popanyinning and Cuballing
YORNANING: The Aboriginal meaning of Yornaning is ‘land of many waters’. As the central area of the Shire of Cuballing, Yornaning was originally one of the most important railway sidings along the Great Southern Railway, as a major water taking stop for the steam engines.
On average, 30 passenger and freight trains once passed through Yornaning per week and stations were built to cater for this. Maintenance crew were encouraged to take up land in the township and surveyors named streets in the town after those who did. Sadly due to faster and more efficient means of transport the decline of the railway was imminent. Many buildings were removed and all that remains now is the Wheat Silo.
However, Yornaning is frequently visited by locals and tourists now that the Yornaning Dam has been developed and is a popular recreation area.